KIDS FIRST! Jury Blog

The Denver Film Society celebrated four decades while delivering 150+ films over twelve days, sponsored by 93 companies. The breadth of cinema selected entertained many and, as the non-profit Festival reported, ticket sales were up 20% over the 2016 Denver Film Festival. Denver’s annual Film Festival is indeed an international affair. Filmmakers attended from 56 countries and talented filmmakers, directors, producers and actors were on-hand to mix with film fans and discuss their films and passions.

This event is about more than screening films. It is an essential entertainment lover’s guide to what’s hot – from red carpets to late-night lounges, film shorts, live reads, virtual reality demos and real-world conversations around issues such as immigrants and refugee conversations. Specifically, the Film Festival partnered with organizations throughout Denver working to benefit the immigrants and refugees who have just started to call Colorado home.

As the world becomes a digital entertainment hub, virtual reality, interactive mixed-media and immersive performance have been added to the festival and storytelling. The Denver Film Society also partnered with the University of Colorado Denver College of Arts & Media to showcase student films. It is always exciting to see new and exciting ways that talented artists are entertaining and inspiring audiences.

I had an opportunity to screen four films: Lady Bird, Molly’s Game, Chappaquiddick and I, Tonya. Of these films, Lady Bird was my favorite. Awards pundits are already wagging about Saoirse Ronan’s performance.  The coming of age plot showcased the Mother-Daughter tie, strong wills and matriculation through teenage angst. Ms. Ronan’s performance is amazing, as are the lessons she learns and shares along the way.

Molly’s Game is based on the true story of Colorado native, Molly Bloom, an Olympic hopeful whose injury derailed her Olympic dreams. Jessica Chastain portrays Molly and delivers a performance I hope will be rewarded with Best Actress. From athlete to entrepreneur, Molly ran the world’s most exclusive high-stakes poker game for a decade in Los Angeles and New York, before being arrested by the FBI. The narrative throughout the film was riveting.

I, Tonya was promoted as the Denver Film Festival Closing Night Red Carpet. Of the films I saw, this was my least favorite and weakest of the marquis selections. It did not captivate me. Real-life Olympian Tonya Harding’s character is presented as a tragic. For the first-time, I felt a lot of sympathy for Ms. Harding. While she was a champion on the ice, she did not have a champion in her life. Margot Robbie is believable and nearly unrecognizable as the disgraced figure-skater. Allison Janney portrays her mother and delivers a brilliant performance. This dark comedy, told documentary-style, is engaging. The constant smoking or extinguished cigarettes on ice skate blades was a big turn-off.

Screening Chappaquiddick near the anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination was a mind-meld. The reflections about JFK and the family’s staunch political mainstay were top of mind throughout a film presenting the infamous auto accident which derailed Ted Kennedy’s political aspirations. Jason Clarke portrays Ted Kennedy. Mr. Kennedy is portrayed as weak and controlled by his stroke-ridden father (Brice Dern), a very ill, older man. While the film does not sway the viewer about what happened one fateful night, it does showcase how tightly-knit the Kennedy clan was and the mystique which follows this beloved and politically astute family.

The Red-Carpet events seem to get better every year. The 2017 Denver Film Festival brought several household names to town including: Kyra Sedgwick, Director of Story Of A Girl (Directorial Debut); Aaron Sorkin, Writer and Director of Molly’s Game; Bill Pullman, Actor in Ballad Of Lefty Brown. Along with A-list talent, several after-parties were hosted including a benefit for Wish of a Lifetime, founded by Colorado-born Jeremy Bloom, following the screening Molly’s Game, a film based on his sister Molly’s life.

The Denver Film Festival published a fantastic film guide which delineates every synopsis and screening opportunity as well as special events, information about talent and more. The conversations about real-world topics, such as immigration, human trafficking and more were a new opportunity to connect with like-minded fans. A unique and fun addition included a Shakespearean Star Wars read. Say what? True.

It’s worth it to take time off in November, fly to Denver and participate. Living the Film Festival is the best way to Fest in Denver! After 40 years, the event additions, exhibits, Red-Carpet events and parties continue to Wow and celebrate the entire gamut of the current entertainment scene.

Roman J. Israel, Esq. is a dramatic thriller set in the underbelly of the overburdened Los Angeles criminal court system. Denzel Washington stars as Roman Israel, a driven, idealistic defense attorney who, through a tumultuous series of events, finds himself in a crisis that leads to extreme action. Colin Farrell costars as the monied, cutthroat lawyer who recruits Roman to his firm. KIDS FIRST! Juror, Juanita L. comments, “I love Denzel Washington as an actor, director and man.  Denzel once again shows his excellent acting skills portraying a civil rights attorney who has worked behind the scenes for more than three decades.” See her full review below.

Roman J. Israel, Esq.
Reviewed by Juanita Seon Leary, KIDS FIRST!  Adult Juror

As Roman J. Israel, Esq., Denzel Washington is outstanding. His law partner, William Henry Jackson had more of a stomach for the grinding inequality of the justice system and served as the face of the firm, while Roman kept to himself.

Jackson becomes ill and eventually dies. His family follows his wishes and, to dissolve the firm, brings in a slick, well-dressed, high-price attorney George (Colin Farrell) to do the job. George is an interesting character and Farrell is plays the part well. First I thought George was the antagonist – a soulless, greedy lawyer who only cared about his retainer. However, George sees something in Roman and offers him a job at his large law practice. Roman resists at first, but money troubles make him reconsider.

Roman is brilliant and quite possibly has Aspergers syndrome (it is not entirely clear about this.) He has an encyclopedic knowledge of the law, but isn’t so good at interacting with other people. He also seems to be trapped in the 70s, unaware of how his familiarity of the culture has changed. We see many examples of his inability to interact with people. In one courtroom scene he disagrees with the plea options for a young offender and he voices his displeasure.  The judge declares him in contempt and fines him.

One of my favorite scenes is when Roman shows up at a non-profit agency that fights for legal rights of the underprivileged as he offers his services to Maya (Carmen Ejogo). She is inspired and moved by his commitment and informs him that everyone volunteers. They develop a friendship and Roman appears as a guest speaker. It becomes clear to Roman that the justice system and the people have changed. And, it ignites his passion to make a change.

The message of this film is about one man’s ferocious commitment to a greater good, to lost causes and to connecting to what he believed in at the beginning. A fighter for those who cannot fight for themselves, he is unique, a lawyer who believes in the law and his clients.

The film contains violence, strong language, drinking, drug use and sexuality. This could be an interesting film for mature teens interested in legal drama. I recommend this film for ages 16 to 18 as well as adults. I give it 5 out of 5 stars! Roman Israel, Esq. opens in theaters November 22, 2017. Go see it and find out more about this unique lawyer.

Nana, Reviewed by Terry Solowey

I have seen many films and documentaries about the Holocaust. However, as a first generation American Jew, this film touched me deeply and left an impact on me like no other. The story is narrated and directed by Serena Dykman, granddaughter of Maryla Michalowski-Dynamant who is her nana.

Two years ago, a NYU film student, Serena, 22 years old, was in her hometown of Brussels, Belgium at the time of the bombing of the Jewish Museum prior to the Charlie Hebdo terrorist attacks in Paris. She had been traveling with her grandmother’s memoirs for a while and couldn’t bring herself to read them. The attacks were the impetus to read her nana’s memoirs and make this incredible documentary about the life of her grandmother growing up in Poland, the onset of WWII, her plight in Auschwitz and post-war.

Nana, a survivor and Polish Jew, dedicated her life to talk about her experiences.  As a fighter and activist against intolerance, and the importance of liberty and democracy, she tirelessly spoke to students at schools, to journalists and to government officials. She led many groups to Auschwitz to show them her living quarters and fiercely told them about what she endured. Her strength, courage and tenacity impressed me deeply. In talking about such adversity, her sense of humor, “How do you like my apartment?” stopped my tears with a light moment of laughter.  Her mission: to never forget.

There are so many touching moments in this film that make a powerful impression. In one interview, she passionately talks about “the magnificent gift of fifty years of life” that she was given after the Holocaust, compelling her to talk for those who didn’t make it, exclaiming, “I had to speak out” to those who denied the Holocaust. “I had to let young people know what can happen if we support regimes like Hitler’s and others.”

In one of her talks, she was asked by a group of young people why Hitler chose to exterminate Jews and she replied, “Hitler didn’t confide in me.” The audience explodes with laughter as her wry sense of humor cuts the tension. In another scene, she talks about the need to look at the history of anti-Semitism and why it happened. She believes Hitler was manic depressive and mentally ill. “Why did the Germans who were not mentally ill vote for him? This is where we have to look for the why.”

This inspirational film is a must see. A story within a story, there are so many authentic personal stories including her memoir writer collaborator, recorder of survivor testimonies, Jewish history teacher and educational project designer among those who knew her well. Ms. Dykman’s footage is complemented by the archival footage that turned up unexpectedly.

In witnessing the three generations of women, nana left her daughter Alice and her granddaughter Serena a legacy to carry on. They do it with a strength and courage in the spirit of their nana. In today’s world, with the rise of anti-Semitism and racism, it is more relevant than ever.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and highly recommend it to 10 to 18 year olds as well as adults. It is in French with English subtitles. You can see NANA at film festivals across the United States. For more information, visit www:nanafilm.com.

Young Thurgood Marshall faces one of his greatest challenges while working as a lawyer for the NAACP. Marshall travels to conservative Connecticut when wealthy socialite Eleanor Strubing accuses black chauffeur Joseph Spell of sexual assault and attempted murder. He soon teams up with Sam Friedman, a local Jewish lawyer who’s never handled a criminal case. Together, the two men build a defense while contending with racist and anti-Semitic views from those who deem Spell to be guilty. KIDS FIRST! Reviewer Juanita L. comments, “For me, this film brought back my experience as a young person who lived in Virginia and experienced the separate but equal in my education.”  See her full review below.

Marshall
By Juanita L., KIDS FIRST!  Adult Juror

I enjoyed watching and experiencing Marshall.  The 1940s legal thriller is the story about a dozen years before young Thurgood Marshall challenged segregation’s separate but equal premise in Brown v. Board of Education.  For me, this film brought back my experience as a young person who lived in Virginia and experienced the separate but equal in my education.

Chadwick Boseman captures the essence of Thurgood Marshall’s spirit. He brings the confidence, intelligence, cockiness as well as the charm and humor of Thurgood. It is an exciting performance from Hollywood’s go-to-guy for playing important Black Americans.

There are many parts that I enjoyed. When Marshall meets Sam Friedman (Josh Gad), we see his cockiness from the moment he steps off the train in Bridgeport, CT., ordering his white co-counsel, Sam Friedman, to carry his bags. Another enjoyable scene is the Harlem night club with Marshall and his friends, Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston.

The cinematography is outstanding. One scene when Marshall and Friedman are in the men’s room, it looks as if they are in the mirror together, however you can see them individually.  With its excellent role models and strong messages about courage, teamwork and tolerance, this film is a great movie for teens and families. You can expect to see fist fights and beatings, with bloody wounds and bruises. There’s also a flashback to a suggested rape, with violent acts against a woman. There is a mild sex scene which includes kissing, however there is no nudity. Language includes several uses of the “N” word as well as “kike.” Characters drink alcohol and there is background smoking.

This film celebrates standing up and courageously risking your own safety to fight against popular opinion and against difficult odds.  The movie is about tolerance in a way that’s more matter-of-fact than self-righteous. Characters work together in an effective way.

I recommend this film for ages 14 to 18 as well as adults and give it 5 out of 5 stars. Marshall opens Friday, October 13, 2017 in theaters across the country. Be entertained while learning about American history and a very powerful and influential man.

An exploration of the relationship between jazz trumpeter Lee Morgan and his common-law wife Helen, who was implicated in his murder in 1972. KIDS FIRST! Juror, Terry S. comments, “This haunting documentary about the life of a great jazz trumpeter Lee Morgan and his wife Helen is one I will not soon forget. ” See her full review below.

I Called Him Morgan
By Terry S., KIDS FIRST! Juror

This haunting documentary about the life of a great jazz trumpeter Lee Morgan and his wife Helen is one I will not soon forget. Swedish filmmaker Kasper Collin weaves the tale of their lives and their relationship through interviews with his friends and fellow musicians including saxophonist Wayne Shorter. He caps it off with an interview with Helen a month before her death in 1996.  Through extraordinary black and white archival photographs, rare TV performances and an amazing soundtrack of Lee’s music, we are transported to the NYC jazz scene from the 50s to the 70s.

As a music aficionado, I was aware of jazz greats Dizzy Gillespie and Art Blakey, but not of Lee Morgan.  The footage of his trumpet playing with these masters really drew me in.  As one friend said in the film, “Lee really knew how to tell a story musically.”  His was an exceptional talent as a young teenager of 17.

However, his addiction to heroin took him out and it wasn’t until he met Helen, that he got back on his feet to play. Through her care, inspiration and love, she managed his career and uplifted him back to compose and play music and eventually form his own band, The Lee Morgan Quartet.

Lee had years of success playing not only clubs in the East but also on the West Coast.  Some of my favorite parts of the documentary include footage on a TV show called “Soul”, where he dedicates a piece to the activist Angela Davis entitled “Angela”, and another TV show hosted by Steve Allen, a talk show host popular at the time. The other favorite part was with the jazz mobile workshop where he worked with young people on musical arrangements and gave them a chance to play and learn from him.  

The twist and turns of Lee and Helen’s life together end tragically when Lee plays at a popular club called Slugs, down in the East Village of NYC.  On a snowy night in February 1972, his life is cut short at the young age of 33 by the woman who had brought him back to life. Following an altercation between sets, Morgan’s common law wife Helen Moore, shot him.

I give this film 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 13 to 18 as well as adult jazz lovers.  You can catch I Called Him Morgan on DVD and Blu-ray beginning October 31, 2017.

In the wake of the sexual revolution and the rise of the women’s movement, the 1973 tennis match between women’s world champion Billie Jean King (Emma Stone) and ex-men’s-champ and serial hustler Bobby Riggs (Steve Carell) was billed as the BATTLE OF THE SEXES and became one of the most watched televised sports events of all time, reaching 90 million viewers around the world. As the rivalry between King and Riggs kicked into high gear, off-court each was fighting more personal and complex battles. The fiercely private King was not only championing for equality, but also struggling to come to terms with her own sexuality, as her friendship with Marilyn Barnett (Andrea Riseborough) developed. And Riggs, one of the first self-made media-age celebrities, wrestled with his gambling demons, at the expense of his family and wife Priscilla (Elisabeth Shue). Together, Billie and Bobby served up a cultural spectacle that resonated far beyond the tennis court, sparking discussions in bedrooms. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Willie J. comments, “The directing is swift, well paced and well filmed. Kudos to the cinematographer who really has a wonderful grasp on stillness to promote an essential moment and exerts great uses of soft and hard focus to portray dramatic moments and internalize character feelings.” See his full review below.

Battle of the Sexes
Willie J., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 18

The themes presented in this film are still relevant and have merit. With that said, I want to add that ever since Ibsen wrote “A Doll’s House,” it’s very rare to get a film (or play for that matter) that is charged with the theme of gender equality and presents it in a way that truly resonates. What do I mean? In films that aim to give a message or present an issues, such as when the writer wants to say something about the relevant society, more often than not, the writer portrays those characters in simple categorizations of good and bad. That may work in a superhero film, but in a piece of realism, where character development and relationships are key elements to the storytelling, simple good and bad just won’t do. That’s my issue with this film. The screenplay simplifies a few integral characters too much, in favor of hoisting up its protagonist.

To get this out of the way, the performances are fantastic. Emma Stone and Steve Carell lead the cast well, and the cast doesn’t have a weak link in it. In particular, a lot of credit has to be given to Steve Carell. He took a character that was underwritten and perhaps even misrepresented and makes him sympathetic and someone to root for. Andrea Riseborough also delivers a very affecting performance and really gives us some great scene work with Emma Stone.

The directing is swift, well paced and well filmed. Kudos to the cinematographer who really has a wonderful grasp on stillness to promote an essential moment and exerts great uses of soft and hard focus to portray dramatic moments and internalize character feelings. The editing also deserves a shout out for some wonderful pacing and really effectively switching between the grainy, 70s like cinematography and more clear cinematography.

Now, back to the screenplay. What made and still makes “A Doll’s House” the ultimate gender-equality script is that every character can be sympathized with. We learn more about the human condition and evils of society, rather than placing blame and anger on individual groups. There are only two men that can be rooted for without hesitation and that’s our protagonist’s husband and father. Every other guy is completely unlikable and has no arc, and Steve Carell’s character can be questioned. Carell’s character, who is a vital part of this story, isn’t written very well or thoroughly. It’s always hard to have two protagonists in a film, especially at a reasonable and well paced time. Carell’s character is both an antagonist and protagonist or, at least attempts to be so. Carell’s character opposes Emma Stone’s. It’s a man versus women ordeal and their tennis match is the crisis and climax of the film. But, here’s the issue. Carell’s character is NOT the antagonist. It’s society! So why is Carell’s character’s standing within the realm of the film so questionable? Why doesn’t he get his own arc? Every major character in “A Doll’s House” takes a journey. That’s what makes us empathize with them and come away disliking their society, and not the products of that society. The same would work with this film. But instead, there is a co-protagonist / antagonist that is not written for people to care about or even empathize with. He gets no arc, no change. He’s unaffected. He may as well have been a smaller part.

Why is this an issue? Because Emma Stone’s character is a catalyst. She’s the driving force and vehicle used within the film to represent the affects of an unjust era and to showcase the positive effects that a change in this society would have. Unfortunately, because Carell’s character and the real antagonists (the sexists who sit atop the societal ladder) don’t change, because we only see them as unlikable, this story turns into something simple and ultimately unfulfilling. Stone’s character merely wins the battle within the film and we come away knowing that and are momentarily happy. However, that soon goes away, which makes this entertaining dramedy perhaps a little forgettable. Had the writing been more substantial and caring to all its characters, and forgiving to all its characters and condemned society instead, we’d come away with a more profound understanding of where issues lie and are issued from. That’s a memorable film. I suppose the cinematic world is still chasing Ibsen.

I give this film 3 out of 5 stars for its entertainment value and performances and recommend it for ages 13 to 18. It is playing in theaters now so go check it out.

I enjoyed watching the drama/biography Rebel in the Rye, directed by Danny Small which examines the life of J.D. Salinger, best known for his novel, Catcher in the Rye. This book was very controversial when it first came out and, although I didn’t read it at the time, this film has inspired me to do so. More on that is yet to come!

The film shows Salinger’s determination, arrogance, humor and underlying inspiration. J.D. Salinger not only has inner conflicts, but he has a major conflict with his dad Sol Salinger (Victor Garber). This film stirred my curiosity so much that I downloaded the book Catcher in the Rye into my audible library. The film also inspired me to seriously begin writing a book.

In the film, we see a young, smart-mouth J.D. Salinger (Nicholas Hoult) as he experiences the horrors of World War II. The combat scenes are not graphically displayed, but Salinger experiences many people killed, including a good friend. He also sees a concentration camp and he is a victim of a mugging.

Strong characters include Whit Burnett (Kevin Spacey), as Jerry’s tough mentor. You can see that he really believes in Salinger and pushes him to “find his voice.” Another character who stands out is Hope Davis as Salinger’s mother. The scene when she receives a copy of his novel is very moving. One of the funniest moments in the film comes when Salinger asked Little, Brown and Company to not send him any reviews of his book. In classic comedic fashion, the very next scene shows Salinger seen reading the reviews at home. I enjoyed seeing the secluded place where Salinger pursued his writing. It is very lovely and peaceful.

You should know that there are scenes of drinking, partying and smoking (common during this era), mild profanity and mild sensuality. I recommend this film for ages 13 to 18 as well as adults. I give it an enthusiastic 5 out 5 Stars. I plan to see it again.  This film comes out on September 15, 2017 so be sure to check it out.

Reviewed by Juanita S.L, KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror

Babies, Puppies, Children, Humor, and Villains all have one thing in common – they all make a terrific film! The animation is colorful and has lots of details. The storyline is cute, silly, original and fun for the whole family.

In the story, Tim wants all of his parents’ love for himself because he was an only child for so long and he is new to the idea of sharing love with his new baby brother. I can relate, since my sister was not thrilled about my arrival. It took her a while to adjust to sharing our parents. Now we are best friends forever. This leads to the lesson that there is enough love for everyone and we can always share. The issues of feeling like you are being replaced and not sharing love with others are two major lessons every brother or sister learns at some point in their life. These are huge and valuable lessons to learn when you are young or about ready to have a new sibling themselves. Plus, a brother or sister means you have a best friend for life.

Each actor is very unique with individual personalities and quirks. Tim (Miles Bakshi) is my favorite character for he reminds me of many people that I know. His transformation warmed my heart and made me all giddy inside. Boss Baby (Alec Baldwin) is the Baby that you want in charge. I love the way that he is so commanding yet kind and silly whenever you talk to him. He is the man with a plan. He knows what to do when you are in trouble and has an adorable little hand to help you on your journey. Francis Francis (Steve Buscemi) is the evil mastermind that you call when you want something that is adorable to the eye, but when you see it up close his plan is just down right diabolical. Dad (Jimmy Kimmel) and Mom (Lisa Kudrow) are the perfect parents when it comes to sharing love with two adorable young men.

The animation is very bold and detailed. I love how each and every detail is addressed in the animation. The animation keeps you interested since there is so much to see and so little time. My favorite scene is was when Tim and The Boss Baby pretend to be pirates and come up with fun pirate sayings and acting as silly kids. I love this moment because there is so much joy and excitement to it. I wanted to jump into the screen and get into the action myself. When Tim teaches Boss Baby how to be a pirate, I laughed and found that I was learning how to act like a pirate too. The way that Tim and Boss Baby make a team of scaly wags is perfect. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

The Boss Baby has many references to films and people that I adore that made me laugh and make the movie relatable to a broad audience. They touch on Mary Poppins, Evil Knievel (I know about him from my Grandfather as they were neighbors and grew up in Butte, Montana together), Pirates of the Caribbean and a bit of Star Wars.

I recommend this film for ages 6 to 18 and give it 5 out of 5 baby giggling stars. The Boss Baby comes out on DVD July 25, 2017 so, go check it out. By Morgan B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

John James Audubon was one of the most remarkable men of early America. A contemporary of Lewis & Clark and Davey Crockett, he explored the American frontier in search of “the feathered tribes” he loved and studied. A self-taught artist and ornithologist, he left a legacy of art and science that made him famous in his lifetime and endures to this day. His portrait hangs in the White House, his statue stands over the entrance to the American Museum of Natural History, and his name was adopted by the nation’s first conservation organization. The program, filmed in locations where Audubon painted, brings to life his timeless paintings with dazzling footage of the living birds he immortalized and celebrates visually the natural world he described in his writings. Interviews reveal the man, explore his art and put his groundbreaking work in modern perspective. KIDS FIRST! Juror, Eli B. comments, “Audubon is such a great film about the life and contributions of John James Audubon. His struggle and journey as a Haitian immigrant to the United States of America is inspiring. The paintings he created forever immortalized the subjects (some of which are now extinct) and the research he did ultimately led to our nation’s first conservation organization.” See her full review below.

Audubon
By Elizabeth B., KIDS FIRST! Adult Juror

This documentary gives an in-depth history of the life of John James Audubon. There are many examples of his beautiful works of art, maps charting his journey from Haiti to America and excerpts from the journals he kept throughout his life. This DVD offers a great way to teach anyone about John James Audubon. The art and story telling is not only beautiful and interesting, but important scientifically and in regards to American history.

The film flows well with great detail and historical accuracy. The material is easily understood and, after scientific elaborations, often a more simplified explanation is given. John James Audubon was a man of incredible talent and fortitude. He faced many challenges such as childhood abandonment, adult poverty and immigration during the 1800s. The film wonderfully details not only his countless contributions to art, science and conservation, but the challenges he faced and surpassed are an equally important part of his story. This film will prompt many questions regarding many topics! Throughout it, Audubon’s travels are documented on a virtual map. The map brings about questions regarding geography, immigration, cultural differences, animal species of North America and many other topics that appeal to many age groups.

The film has great visual appeal. It is filmed in locations where Audubon painted and, throughout it, these works are shown in all their glory. Selections of Audubon’s original journal entries are seen for the first time in this film as well. The cover of the DVD and the CD have iconic Audubon images titled “Wild Turkey” and “The Great Horned Owl”. This offers the option of viewing the 90 minute theatrical version or the 60 minute broadcast version. English subtitles are available. Scene selection is not available, but you can pause, rewind or fast forward as necessary.

Audubon is such a great film about the life and contributions of John James Audubon. His struggle and journey as a Haitian immigrant to the United States of America is inspiring. The paintings he created forever immortalized the subjects (some of which are now extinct) and the research he did ultimately led to our nation’s first conservation organization. This film will prompt many questions regarding many topics including birds, painting, hiking and travel, American history in the early 1800s and more. The message of this film is in its detailed historical look at the life and contributions of John James Audubon to art, science and Conservation.

I give this 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18, plus adults. Audubon will be available on DVD June 20, 2017.  Reviewed by Eli B., KIDS FIRST! Juror.

Sometimes things are not always what they seem, especially in the small suburban town where the Carpenter family lives. Single suburban mother Susan Carpenter works as a waitress at a diner, alongside feisty family friend Sheila. Her younger son Peter is a playful 8-year-old. Taking care of everyone and everything in his own unique way is Susan’s older son Henry, age 11. Protector to his adoring younger brother and tireless supporter of his often self-doubting mother – and, through investments, of the family as a whole – Henry blazes through the days like a comet. Susan discovers that the family next door, which includes Henry’s kind classmate Christina, has a dangerous secret – and that Henry has devised a surprising plan to help. As his brainstormed rescue plan for Christina takes shape in thrilling ways, Susan finds herself at the center of it. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Willie J. comments, “However, I was pleasantly surprised by this under-the-radar film and am sure general audiences will as well. The Book of Henry is an emotionally affecting film with a few fine messages about parenthood and altruism.” See his full review below.

The Book of Henry
Willie Jones, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 18

I had no expectations going into this movie. I knew I like the director, the leading actress and it has an interesting premise. However, I was pleasantly surprised by this under-the-radar film and am sure general audiences will as well. The Book of Henry is an emotionally affecting film with a few fine messages about parenthood and altruism.

The movie actually surprised me. Perhaps it’s because I had no prior knowledge about it, but the twist (I don’t think it’s supposed to be a twist per se) in the movie is reminiscent of Psycho, in that the seeming protagonist has an interesting cinematic journey. That provides the basis of our catharsis. It’s actually very solid writing. We become invested in this character who has a charm and wit about him that’s irresistibly likable and we fall for him. We become invested in his relationships with his mother, his little brother and his neighbor. The plot is already in motion and then the twist happens.

After this twist, the true protagonist comes to the forefront and we become invested in her because we feel for her and root for her cause. The only issue – her cause happens to be literally unbelievable and predictably improbable. However, we find ourselves nearly believing it. I mean, there’s a sequence that’s utterly Hitchcockian, when there’s cross editing between two separate scenes. One scene is used as the musical background for the other and the tension is palpable. It’s reminiscent of the concert scene in The Man Who Knew Too Much. It all comes to a satisfying ending that we all knew was coming and yet, isn’t any less smile inducing.

The performances are very good. Naomi Watts is one of our generation’s most consistent actors and the youngsters Jacob Tremblay and  Jaeden Lieberher hold their weight and then some. However the score and direction deserve a lot of credit. The film is very well paced and switches between tones so seamlessly. Never are we pulled out of the film because it gets boring or it goes too quickly or it switches between genres.

A lot of reviews are bashing the film. Don’t get me wrong, it has its flaws. The foundation of the character is never told and is a glaring hole. A few plot elements are improbable, definitely. However, those are forgivable in the grand scheme. This film has charm and intrigue. I believe it’ll go down as one of those films where critics and general audiences just don’t agree. With that said, I give this movie 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 to 18. It can be seen at a local theater when it opens June 16, 2017.